SHAHIDULLAH KAISER

"I became a novelist because Ayub Khan sent me to jail," is one his most famous quotes. Born in Feni Shahidullah's family name was Abu Nayeem Muhammad Shahidullah . He is one of the greatest novelists of Bengali literature. He was also a renowned journalist and activist in pre-liberation Bangladesh. His literary works ignited the nationalistic spirit of Bangladeshis while they were suppressed by their Pakistani rulers. He completed his graduation in economics from Presidency College, Calcutta. Since his student days Shahidullah was involved in cultural movements and left wing politics. For his avid interest in cultural and political movements Shahidullah didn't finish his post graduation studies and returned to newly formed East Pakistan. He started journalism with the Daily Ittefaq in 1949. He participated actively in the language movement and was arrested in 1952. He spent eight years in jail first for his role in the language movement and by Ayub Khan regime for his voice against martial law. After his release in 1958 he joined the Daily Shangbad as an associate editor. He was renowned for his dauntless journalism and always received the threat from Pakistani rulers. He authored many famous novels such as Sareng Bau (The Captain's Wife, 1962), Sangshaptak (The Indomitable Soldiers, 1965), Timir Balay (The Circle of Darkness). Shahidullah was finally tracked by Pakistan army and their local collaborators.  On 14th December, 1971 He was picked up by Pakistani army and never returned, his body hasn't been found.